…calls for joint action, data sharing among MDA’s
By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has restated its commitment to tackling the devastating effects of flooding across Nigeria, calling for stronger collaboration among relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to develop sustainable responses to the growing climate crisis.
This was disclosed in a statement made available by Segun Imohiosen, Director, Information & Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
According to the statement, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Nnamdi Maurice Mberi, gave the assurance during a strategic meeting with ministers and chief executives of climate-related MDAs on the prevention and management of flooding in Nigeria.
“This administration is particular about addressing the issues of flooding and other related issues like desertification,” he stated. “Mr. President is resolute towards implementing effective measures to curtail the menace.”
Senator Akume emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation between agencies, stressing that the Federal Government is working closely with sub-national entities to build resilience against flooding and climate change.
In their separate remarks, the heads of agencies in attendance provided updates on ongoing efforts and technological tools being deployed.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by Dr. Usman Abdullahi Bokani, Director of Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zone Management, revealed that automated flood warning systems have been installed in 22 communities nationwide. He also noted the establishment of local “flood vanguards” to assist in early alerts and response.
The Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Dr. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, disclosed that the agency is utilizing geo-spatial tools to monitor the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon—a key factor in downstream flooding in Nigeria.
Dr. Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), highlighted close collaboration with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), which enables effective seasonal and flood forecasting. “We share data and collaborate on risk communication to mobilise the grassroots,” he said.
On his part, Professor Charles Anosike, Director General and CEO of NiMET, explained that the agency issues multiple forecasts, including daily and three-day weather outlooks, as well as a quarterly flood and drought monitoring bulletin.
Representing the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Dr. Onimode Bandele, Director of Planning, Research and Forecasting, affirmed the agency’s readiness to provide relief materials to affected communities.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to establish an inter-agency committee that will regularly report its activities to the President, in a bid to consolidate the national strategy for flood prevention and disaster management.
